Little known Super Eagles-eligible Iroegbunam joins Everton's Nigerian legacy after £9m switch

Tim Iroegbunam, the latest Nigerian at Everton.

Little known Super Eagles-eligible Iroegbunam joins Everton's Nigerian legacy after £9m switch

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:01 - 22.06.2024

Everton have signed Super Eagles-eligible wonderkid in a swoop that sees him become the latest Nigerian at Goodison Park.

Everton fans are ready for a blast from the past as the Toffees are on the verge of adding another Nigerian superstar to their illustrious list, following in the footsteps of Goodison heroes Joseph Yobo and Yakubu Aiyegbeni.

In a shock move, the Toffees have completed a deal to sign Aston Villa midfielder Tim Iroegbunam for a fee believed to be around £9 million. The youngster has already completed his medical, with the transfer as good as done.

Everton swoop on Super Eagles star

"Tim Iroegbunam has signed for Everton from Aston Villa for an undisclosed fee," Everton stated after confirming the transfer.

Iroegbunam, clearly saddened to leave Villa, took to Instagram to pen an emotional goodbye:

Tim Iroegbunam will leave Aston Villa for Everton.
Tim Iroegbunam will leave Aston Villa for Everton.

"It was an honour to call myself a Villan. To my teammates, coaches & to you fans — you will all be missed!"

But the big question on every Everton fan's mind is: Can Iroegbunam live up to the legendary status of iconic Nigerians Yobo and Aiyegbeni? Will he become a fan favourite like his Nigerian predecessors?

Tim Iroegbunam has penned a three-year contract with Everton.
Tim Iroegbunam has penned a three-year contract with Everton. (Photo Credit: Everton)

Remember when Super Eagles’ AFCON winner Yobo dominated defences for eight glorious years at Goodison Park?

Or when Aiyegbeni terrorised goalkeepers with his clinical finishing? Now, Iroegbunam has the chance to write his own chapter in Everton's Nigerian history.

The midfielder made 15 appearances in all competitions last term, having enjoyed a loan spell with Queens Park Rangers in 2022/23.
The midfielder made 15 appearances in all competitions last term, having enjoyed a loan spell with Queens Park Rangers in 2022/23.

One thing's for sure – Everton's love affair with Nigerian talent is far from over as they hope the coming of the highly rated youngster will help the Toffees perform better in the Premier League.

Will Iroegbunam be the next Super Eagle to soar at Goodison Park? Toffees fans are in for a THRILLING ride, as they welcome the latest addition to their Nigerian Hall of Fame.

The Yak and Yobo during their time at Everton.
The Yak and Yobo during their time at Everton.

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